“In a world that is turning away, the Society of Jesus continues its mission through JRS to walk alongside forcibly displaced people, and this dedication only deepens with time. Trusting in God who is always faithful, we hold to the hope that together, with faith and commitment, we may contribute to building a world rooted in justice, reconciliation, and peace,” Fr. Arturo Sosa SJ, Superior General of the Society of Jesus, shared these words to commemorate JRS’s 45 years of accompaniment.

Founded on 14 November 1980, by the then Superior General Pedro Arrupe SJ to provide a human, pedagogical and spiritual response to the plight of refugees at that time, JRS is an apostolate of the Society of Jesus.

Arrupe’s vision – that “being with” refugees and other forcibly displaced people is fundamental while “doing for” them – continues to inspire JRS to this day. Faithful to this vision, JRS has walked in solidarity with millions of forcibly displaced people worldwide, ensuring that they can heal, learn, and determine their own future, even in its most difficult and tragic moments.

Father General’s full message: